Where to Find the Best Ski Hills in Nova Scotia
Looking for where to go skiing in Nova Scotia? Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, the province’s ski hills provide well-groomed trails, cozy lodges, and beautiful winter scenery. From family-friendly slopes to thrilling runs with ocean views, here’s your guide to the top ski hills in Nova Scotia.
Downhill Skiing in Nova Scotia: What to Expect
Downhill skiing in Nova Scotia is all about smaller, community-focused ski hills. While the province doesn’t have the massive slopes you’ll find in Western Canada, its hills are perfect for families, beginners, and those who love skiing close to home.
The Perks of Skiing in Nova Scotia:
- Groomed trails for skiers of all levels
- Affordable lift passes compared to larger ski resorts
- Ski schools and rentals available at all major hills
Top Ski Hills in Nova Scotia
Here’s a look at the four main ski hills where you can enjoy downhill skiing in Nova Scotia:
1. Ski Wentworth
📍14595 Highway 4, Wentworth
As the largest ski area in the Maritimes, Ski Wentworth is a top destination for downhill skiing in Nova Scotia.
Located in the beautiful Wentworth Valley, this hill offers something for everyone—from gentle beginner trails to challenging expert runs. Its impressive 238-metre vertical rise is complemented by 25 alpine trails and 10 kilometres of cross-country trails, making it perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The longest run stretches an exciting 3.7 kilometres, giving you plenty of time to soak in the views before heading back up on one of the two quad chairlifts, conveyor lift, or T-bar.
Beyond skiing, Ski Wentworth offers night skiing, a terrain park, and dedicated areas for aerials and moguls. You’ll also find plenty of après-ski options with a restaurant, bar, cafeteria, and outdoor beer garden. If you need gear or lessons, their rental shop and ski school have you covered.
Highlights of Ski Wentworth:
- Trails: 25 alpine trails and 10km of cross-country skiing
- Vertical Rise: 238 metres, with the longest run at 3.7km
- Activities: Terrain park, aerials and moguls area, snowshoeing, and night skiing
- Facilities: Ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, restaurant, bar, cafeteria, and beer garden
- Pricing: Lift tickets start at $40 for adults through the week, $55 Thursday to Sunday, $25/35 for kids age 6-11, and $15/20 for ages 5 and under. Full pricing can be found here.
Local Tip: After skiing, visit Wentworth Falls, just down the road from the ski hill. A short five-minute walk leads to a beautiful waterfall, which is especially impressive in winter when it’s frozen. For more waterfalls to explore, check out this guide to waterfalls near Halifax.
2. Ski Martock
📍 370 Ski Martock Rd, Windsor Forks, NS
Located less than an hour from downtown Halifax, Ski Martock is the go-to spot for skiing and snowboarding in the Annapolis Valley. It’s an easy day trip and a great idea if you’re looking for something to do in the winter in Halifax.
With 8 trails, ranging from easy to intermediate, it’s a popular choice for families and beginner skiers. For younger or less experienced visitors, Martock features a magic carpet conveyor belt on the Bunny Hill, as well as a beginner hill. There’s also two terrain parks and well-groomed alpine slopes, providing plenty of options for snowboarders and intermediate skiers alike.
Martock is also known for its night skiing and snowboarding, available every night of the week. With private and group ski lessons, multi-week programs, and full equipment rentals, it’s a great choice for those learning the ropes. After a day on the slopes, warm up at the accessible lodge, complete with a cozy fireplace and a full menu at the Inside Edge Lounge.
Highlights of Ski Martock:
- Trails: 8 trails for easy to intermediate skiing and snowboarding, plus 2 terrain parks
- Vertical Rise: 183 metres
- Family-Friendly: Beginner and kids’ hills, magic carpet conveyor belt
- Facilities: Ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, and an accessible lodge with the Inside Edge Lounge
- Pricing: Lift tickets start at $60 for adults and $48 for kids 15 and under. Full-day lift ticket and rental packages start at $95 for adults and $85 for kids. Full info on pricing can be found here.
Local Tip: Make a day of it by exploring Windsor, a small town with plenty of things to do, from local shops to cozy cafés and restaurants—perfect for a bite to eat after skiing
3. Ski Ben Eoin
📍5101 Highway 4, Ben Eoin, NS
Located on beautiful Cape Breton Island, Ski Ben Eoin is a great destination for both beginners and experienced skiers. With 11 alpine runs, and the longest run stretching 1,300 metres (4,200 feet), this ski hill offers a mix of challenges and fun. The quad chairlift and carpet lift make it easy to access the slopes, and there’s night skiing for those who want to extend their day on the mountain.
Ben Eoin also caters to outdoor enthusiasts with 15 kilometres of groomed cross-country trails, snowshoe trails, and a snowboard park. For families, there’s also tubing, which is an affordable and fun way to enjoy the snow.
As one of the few Nova Scotia ski resorts, it offers a complete winter getaway experience. After skiing, you can unwind at the lodge or book a cozy winter getaway at The Lakes Golf Club & Resort, where you can ski right from your door.
Highlights of Ben Eoin:
- Trails: 11 runs for all skill levels, longest at 1,300m
- Vertical Rise: 149 metres
- Other Activities: Night skiing, cross-country skiing (15km), snowshoe trails, and tubing
- Facilities: Ski and snowboard rentals, lessons, and a snowboard park
- Pricing: Lift tickets start at $45 for 4 hours or $52 for a full day. Chairlift and rental packages are $74. Snowshoe rentals also available.
Pro Tip: Make it a weekend trip by staying at The Lakes Golf Club & Resort. You’ll love waking up and hitting the slopes right from your doorstep. For more winter escapes across the province, explore our guide to winter getaways in Nova Scotia.
4. Cape Smokey
📍38696 Cabot Trail, Ingonish Beach
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Cape Breton Highlands, Cape Smokey offers some of the most incredible views you’ll find on any ski hill in Nova Scotia.
With 59 acres of skiable terrain, and the highest vertical drop in the province, it’s a must-visit for skiers and snowboarders alike. The hill is also home to Atlantic Canada’s first gondola, providing scenic rides with sweeping views of the ocean, the Cabot Trail, the village of Ingonish, and the iconic Keltic Lodge.
Cape Smokey receives plenty of snow, with an average of 393 centimetres of snowfall annually (how’s that for precise?), making for excellent skiing conditions throughout the winter. The hill offers ski and snowboard lessons as well as equipment rentals, so you can hit the slopes prepared.
Highlights of Cape Smokey:
- Trails: 15 runs
- Vertical Rise: 305 metres (the highest in Nova Scotia)
- Activties: Snowshoe trails, tubing and breathtaking gondola rides with ocean views
- Facilities: Gondola, ski and snowboard lessons, and equipment rentals
- Pricing: Day passes are $69.99 for adults, $60.45 for students and seniors, and $49.99 for kids aged 6–11
Local Tip: Don’t miss the gondola ride, even if you’re not skiing—it’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Cape Breton in winter.
Bonus: North Highlands Nordic Cross Country Ski Facility
If you’re looking for a change of pace from downhill skiing, consider visiting the North Highlands Nordic Cross Country Ski Facility in Cape Breton. Located in Cape North, this facility is known for its 10 kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails that wind through stunning winter landscapes. The trails are well-maintained and offer options for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Highlights of North Highlands Nordic Cross Country Ski Facility:
- Activities: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing
- Trails: 10km of groomed trails for all skill levels
- Facilities: Rental equipment available
- Location: 29459 Cabot Trail, Cape North, NS
Local Tip: This is a perfect spot to experience Cape Breton’s winter beauty at a slower pace. Pair your visit with a drive along the snow-covered Cabot Trail.
FAQs About Skiing in Nova Scotia
Can I rent equipment at Nova Scotia ski hills?
Yes, all four ski hills offer rentals for skis, snowboards, and helmets.
Which ski hill is best for beginners?
Ski Martock is great for beginners thanks to its ski school and gentle slopes.
Is there night skiing in Nova Scotia?
Both Ski Martock, Ski Wentworth and Ski Ben Eoin offer night skiing on select evenings.
Final Thoughts: Top Ski Hills Nova Scotia
Whether you’re a seasoned skier or trying the slopes for the first time, Nova Scotia’s ski hills offer something for everyone. From the family-friendly trails at Ski Martock to the breathtaking ocean views at Cape Smokey, each hill provides its own unique experience. Skiing Nova Scotia is all about affordable prices, great snow, and scenic runs that make for an enjoyable winter adventure. So, grab your gear and make this winter one to remember.
Ready to plan your winter adventures? Beyond skiing, Nova Scotia has so much to offer during the colder months. Check out our guide to winter activities in Nova Scotia for more inspiration.
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